Thomas Lee Peterson

Thomas Lee Peterson, 71 - Ret. US Army, of Cohasset, sadly passed away on November 8, 2023 after a short illness. Tom was surrounded by loved ones when he passed. He was born in Duluth, MN on December 23, 1951. He was preceded in death by his father, J. Roger Peterson.

He is survived by his loving wife of 19 years, Kelly Ann; his mother Gloria Peterson and his sister, Susan Peterson Kizzire (Mark) - Oriental, NC; his sons Kristopher Lee - Schertz, TX, John Roger (Tisha) - Natalia, TX, Aaron Thomas (Auna) - Melbourne, FL, Russell and Travis Gessler - Wisconsin; and his daughters Erica Kantola - Houston, TX and Courtney Zimmerman - Cohasset, MN; as well as numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Tom was a true patriot and a skilled outdoorsman. He loved hunting and fishing, as taught by his father, and was very proud that his sons all shared his enthusiasm and respect for the hunt. Tom became an ordained minister in 2012 and performed weddings for several family members.

Tom’s youth was spent in Minnesota, North Dakota and Colorado. His 25-year Army career sent him to Texas, Germany, Alaska and back to Colorado. But the north woods of Minnesota called him home. He and Kelly found their forever home here, their beloved Circle P Ranch. Together they rescued horses and dogs, raised poultry, established bountiful gardens and tapped their sugar maples to make pure “liquid gold” syrup that they shared with family and friends annually.

When I’m Gone

When I come to the end of my journey and travel my last weary mile, Just forget if you can, that I ever frowned and remember, only the smile.

Forget unkind words I have spoken; remember some good I have done, Forget that I ever had a heartache and remember I’ve had loads of fun.

Forget that I have stumbled and blundered and sometimes fell by the way. Remember I have fought some hard battles and won, Ere the close of the day.

Then forget to grieve for my going, I would not have you sad for a day,

But in summer just gather some flowers and remember the place where I lay.

And come in the evening, when the sun paints the sky in the west Stand for a few moments beside me And remember only my best.

We will miss him very much. As per Tom’s request, no funeral or memorial service will be held.